Investigating brain imaging markers related to vascular contributions to cognitive decline and dementia.

Physiological imaging markers in vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID)

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10994171

This study is looking at how problems with small blood vessels in the brain can affect thinking and memory in older adults, and it aims to find new ways to spot these issues using special MRI scans that measure brain oxygen levels, so we can better help those dealing with cognitive decline and dementia.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994171 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how small-vessel-related vascular issues contribute to cognitive impairment and dementia, particularly in older adults. It aims to develop new biomarkers that can help diagnose and monitor these conditions by using advanced non-invasive MRI techniques to measure brain oxygen levels. By extending existing classification systems for dementia, this research seeks to improve the identification and treatment of patients suffering from vascular cognitive impairment and related dementias.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline, particularly those with vascular cognitive impairment or dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment not related to vascular issues or those with other types of dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment options for patients with vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using physiological markers for diagnosing and monitoring dementia, suggesting that this approach could be impactful.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.